Ambon, 25 July 2025 — The Ministry of Creative Economy continues to strengthen its commitment to advancing the creative economy as the new engine of growth, starting from the regions. One of these efforts is marked by the release of the song Papa Mama Pung Pasang from Ambon, one of the cities that has been part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network in the field of music since 2019.
Kementerian Ekraf Dukung Industri Musik Tumbuh dari Daerah, Ambon Buktikan Daya Saing Global sebagai Kota Musik UNESCO, Ambon, Jumat (25/07/2025).
“The Indonesian music industry does not always have to begin in the center. Ambon has demonstrated that regional creativity can become the new engine of growth for the national economy,” said Minister of Creative Economy Teuku Riefky Harsya on Friday, 25 July 2025.
The song release, carried out through one of the Ministry of Creative Economy’s programs, AKTIF (Creative Acceleration), presents a collaborative work written by Gian Tomasoa and performed by Willy Sopacua together with Kaihulu Band. This work serves as a tangible manifestation of strengthening the regional music ecosystem while also providing a space of appreciation for creative practitioners in Ambon.
Doc. Bureau Communication of The Ministry of Creative Economy/ Creative Economy Agency
“As a UNESCO City of Music, Ambon stands as evidence that cultural identity and economic potential can move forward hand in hand,” added Minister Teuku Riefky.
More than just a song release, Papa Mama Pung Pasang also reflects the power of music as a medium that connects values, traditions, and stories across generations. This work reinforces the narrative that the creative industry is not merely about economic value, but also about how local cultural heritage continues to live on in forms that remain relevant and appealing to today’s generation.
Doc. Bureau Communication of The Ministry of Creative Economy/ Creative Economy Agency
Ambon’s commitment and consistency in maintaining the sustainability of its music industry have gained global recognition. In the periodic evaluation conducted by the UNESCO Creative Cities Network this year, Ambon achieved the highest distinction, Excellent, an accomplishment that reflects the strength of collaboration among local stakeholders.
The Ministry of Creative Economy continues to expand similar initiatives to other cities to ensure that the growth of Indonesia’s music industry becomes more inclusive, equitable, and highly competitive, as part of the government’s commitment to building a sustainable creative economy ecosystem. Deputy for Media Creativity Agustini Rahayu explained that AKTIF is a program designed to accelerate creative economy development by targeting local communities in the regions.
Doc. Bureau Communication of The Ministry of Creative Economy/ Creative Economy Agency
“Creative Acceleration aims to speed up the economic impact of local works. We work alongside communities by providing facilitation for music video production as well as support for distribution and exposure, so that regional music ecosystems can continue to grow comprehensively,” said Deputy Agustini.
Meanwhile, Director of Music Mohammad Amin conveyed that the development of music talent in Ambon is facilitated through various programs, ranging from musician management training and the provision of performance stages to networking with international industry players.
“We want Ambon to become a model of collaboration that can be replicated in other regions—that even from local communities, works can reach the global stage,” said Director Amin.
Kiagoos Irvan Faisal
Acting Head of the Bureau for Communication
Ministry of Creative Economy/ Creative Economy Agency
